'Mecca of Cricket': From Test debut to World Cup - India's historic performances at Lord's in pictures

From Sourav Ganguly to Sachin Tendulkar, former Indian&nbsp;cricketers&nbsp;are ecstatic after the Virat Kohli-led team registered a glorious and thrilling victory against England in the second Test of a five-match series at Lord's. Team India took a 1-0 lead on Monday (August 16) in the ongoing tour after the first match was washed away.&nbsp;

Indian pacers got special praises for their impressive knocks and spells. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Ishant Sharma shared 10 wickets between them to bundle out England for 120 in the final session.&nbsp;

KL Rahul's sensational century in the first innings was crucial for team India but the unbeaten ninth-wicket stand of 89 between Shami, who hit a career-best 56, and Bumrah, who made 34, in the second innings stole the show as it swung the momentum back in India's favour after they were struggling on 209-8.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;INDvsENG:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvseng-netizens-says-dont-mess-with-team-india-on-bumrah-buttler-argument-virats-reaction-goes-viral-watch-406209">Netizens says 'don't mess with team India' on Bumrah-Buttler argument; Virat's reaction goes viral - watch</a>

"Fantastic win for india...what character and guts from the team ..each and every one ..such a pleasure to watch it from so close," India's cricket chief Sourav Ganguly, who was in London for the match, wrote on Twitter.

Sachin wrote, "That was some Test match #TeamIndia! Enjoyed watching every moment of it. The resilience and grit that the team displayed in difficult situations is something that stood out for me. Very well played!"

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That was some Test match <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>! 👏🏻🇮🇳 
 
Enjoyed watching every moment of it. The resilience and grit that the team displayed in difficult situations is something that stood out for me. 
 
Very well played! ☺️ 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/BLpdMdNx2J">pic.twitter.com/BLpdMdNx2J</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1427328298195984388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-india-to-begin-campaign-against-pakistan-as-icc-announces-tournament-schedule-406194">T20 World Cup: India to begin campaign against Pakistan as ICC announces tournament schedule</a>

Former skipper of the Indian cricket team Kapil Dev wrote, "Heartiest congratulations Team India &nbsp;Winning at Lord’s after Gabba Keep up the great character that you have shown Aap ne Dil jeet Liya"

Batting great VVS Laxman said: "What an incredible day of Test Match Cricket and one to remember for a long time for every Indian Fan. Bumrah and Shami fighting with the bat early in the day, and pace attack of Siraj, Ishant, Bumrah, Shami giving it their all and India registering a sensational win."

Yuvraj Singh wrote, "Great win boys ! Our bowlers bowled their hearts out !! Game changing moment @MdShami11 and @Jaspritbumrah93 partnership! @mdsirajofficial amazing spell ! Enjoy the moment lads #IndvsEng"

Virendra Sehwag said, "From At beginning of the day, “ bacha paayenge kya”,to registering this win at Lords, not many teams can turn around their fortunes in overseas Test Matches like we have done. Kamaal kar diya ladkon ne.. And as they say, Never ever ever ever underestimate the Indian’s #LordsTest"

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From At beginning of the day, “ bacha paayenge kya”,to registering this win at Lords, not many teams can turn around their fortunes in overseas Test Matches like we have done. Kamaal kar diya ladkon ne.. 
And as they say, Never ever ever ever underestimate the Indian’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LordsTest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LordsTest</a> <a href="https://t.co/pLTz49AxUq">pic.twitter.com/pLTz49AxUq</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1427327317316050945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Virat Kohli's side won by 151 runs in a match that witnessed some on-field verbal exchanges between the two sides. Opener KL Rahul was named man of the match for his 129 in India's first-innings total of 364 after being invited to bat first by England skipper Joe Root.

England responded with 391 riding Root's unbeaten 180. India declared their second innings on 298-8 early in the second session on day five and the new-ball bowlers Bumrah and Shami struck early to corner England. &nbsp;

From Sourav Ganguly to Sachin Tendulkar, former Indian cricketers are ecstatic after the Virat Kohli-led team registered a glorious and thrilling victory against England in the second Test of a five-match series at Lord's.

From Sourav Ganguly to Sachin Tendulkar, former Indian cricketers are ecstatic after the Virat Kohli-led team registered a glorious and thrilling victory against England in the second Test of a five-match series at Lord's. Team India took a 1-0 lead on Monday (August 16) in the ongoing tour after the first match was washed away. Indian pacers got special praises for their impressive knocks and spells. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj and Ishant Sharma shared 10 wickets between them to bundle out England for 120 in the final session. KL Rahul's sensational century in the first innings was crucial for team India but the unbeaten ninth-wicket stand of 89 between Shami, who hit a career-best 56, and Bumrah, who made 34, in the second innings stole the show as it swung the momentum back in India's favour after they were struggling on 209-8. ALSO READ | INDvsENG: Netizens says 'don't mess with team India' on Bumrah-Buttler argument; Virat's reaction goes viral - watch "Fantastic win for india...what character and guts from the team ..each and every one ..such a pleasure to watch it from so close," India's cricket chief Sourav Ganguly, who was in London for the match, wrote on Twitter. Sachin wrote, "That was some Test match #TeamIndia! Enjoyed watching every moment of it. The resilience and grit that the team displayed in difficult situations is something that stood out for me. Very well played!" That was some Test match #TeamIndia! 👏🏻🇮🇳 Enjoyed watching every moment of it. The resilience and grit that the team displayed in difficult situations is something that stood out for me. Very well played! ☺️ #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/BLpdMdNx2J — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) August 16, 2021 × ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: India to begin campaign against Pakistan as ICC announces tournament schedule Former skipper of the Indian cricket team Kapil Dev wrote, "Heartiest congratulations Team India Winning at Lord’s after Gabba Keep up the great character that you have shown Aap ne Dil jeet Liya" Batting great VVS Laxman said: "What an incredible day of Test Match Cricket and one to remember for a long time for every Indian Fan. Bumrah and Shami fighting with the bat early in the day, and pace attack of Siraj, Ishant, Bumrah, Shami giving it their all and India registering a sensational win." Yuvraj Singh wrote, "Great win boys ! Our bowlers bowled their hearts out !! Game changing moment @MdShami11 and @Jaspritbumrah93 partnership! @mdsirajofficial amazing spell ! Enjoy the moment lads #IndvsEng" Virendra Sehwag said, "From At beginning of the day, “ bacha paayenge kya”,to registering this win at Lords, not many teams can turn around their fortunes in overseas Test Matches like we have done. Kamaal kar diya ladkon ne.. And as they say, Never ever ever ever underestimate the Indian’s #LordsTest" From At beginning of the day, “ bacha paayenge kya”,to registering this win at Lords, not many teams can turn around their fortunes in overseas Test Matches like we have done. Kamaal kar diya ladkon ne.. And as they say, Never ever ever ever underestimate the Indian’s #LordsTest pic.twitter.com/pLTz49AxUq — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 16, 2021 × Virat Kohli's side won by 151 runs in a match that witnessed some on-field verbal exchanges between the two sides. Opener KL Rahul was named man of the match for his 129 in India's first-innings total of 364 after being invited to bat first by England skipper Joe Root. England responded with 391 riding Root's unbeaten 180. India declared their second innings on 298-8 early in the second session on day five and the new-ball bowlers Bumrah and Shami struck early to corner England.

From Sourav Ganguly to Sachin Tendulkar: Former Indian cricketers laud Virat-led team after 'fantastic' Lord's win

Sports stadiums in England will return to their former glory and will hosts a crowd at full capacity for the first time since March last year after the British administration announced further relaxation of the Covid-19 norms.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2-groups-10-teams-74-matches-the-ipl-2022-season-may-see-significant-changes-report-396142" hreflang="en">IPL: 2 groups, 10 teams, 74 matches: The IPL 2022 season may see significant changes - Report</a>&nbsp;

This means that upcoming India vs England Test series will be played in front of a full house. The five-match Test series will kick off on August 4.&nbsp;

"We'll move away from legal restrictions and allow people to make their own informed decisions about how to manage the virus," Sky Sports quoted British PM as saying.

"From step four we will remove all legal limits on the numbers meeting indoors and outdoors. We will allow all businesses to reopen, including nightclubs, we will lift the limit on named visitors to care homes and the numbers of people attending concerts, theatre, and sports events," he added.

The ease in Covid-19 norms mean the upcoming semifinal and final matches of Euro 2020 at Wembley Stadium will be played in front of the jam-packed crowd.

English pacer Stuart Broad reacted to this decision and tweeted: "Trent Bridge 1st Test Vs India".&nbsp;

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Trent Bridge 1st Test Vs India 😍😍😍 <a href="https://t.co/6UzGAnPvIz">https://t.co/6UzGAnPvIz</a>
— Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) <a href="https://twitter.com/StuartBroad8/status/1412086984613449732?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The five-match red-ball series will kick off on August 4. The last time Men in Blue played a Test series in English conditions, they suffered a 4-1 loss (in 2017).

The forthcoming five Tests against England will give Team India ostensibly the best chance to put any demons to rest in England. A determined series win would not just recuperate the wounds of the previous few years yet, in addition, clear any questions about the team's future possibilities.&nbsp;

Sports stadiums in England will return to their former glory and will hosts a crowd at full capacity for the first time since March last year after the British administration announced further relaxation of the Covid-19 norms.

Sports stadiums in England will return to their former glory and will hosts a crowd at full capacity for the first time since March last year after the British administration announced further relaxation of the Covid-19 norms. ALSO READ: IPL: 2 groups, 10 teams, 74 matches: The IPL 2022 season may see significant changes - Report This means that upcoming India vs England Test series will be played in front of a full house. The five-match Test series will kick off on August 4. "We'll move away from legal restrictions and allow people to make their own informed decisions about how to manage the virus," Sky Sports quoted British PM as saying. "From step four we will remove all legal limits on the numbers meeting indoors and outdoors. We will allow all businesses to reopen, including nightclubs, we will lift the limit on named visitors to care homes and the numbers of people attending concerts, theatre, and sports events," he added. The ease in Covid-19 norms mean the upcoming semifinal and final matches of Euro 2020 at Wembley Stadium will be played in front of the jam-packed crowd. English pacer Stuart Broad reacted to this decision and tweeted: "Trent Bridge 1st Test Vs India". Trent Bridge 1st Test Vs India 😍😍😍 https://t.co/6UzGAnPvIz — Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) July 5, 2021 × The five-match red-ball series will kick off on August 4. The last time Men in Blue played a Test series in English conditions, they suffered a 4-1 loss (in 2017). The forthcoming five Tests against England will give Team India ostensibly the best chance to put any demons to rest in England. A determined series win would not just recuperate the wounds of the previous few years yet, in addition, clear any questions about the team's future possibilities.

Cricket: England vs India Test series to be played in front of full-capacity crowd

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has clarified that there have been no requests from the Indian cricket board (BCCI) to tweak the schedule of the upcoming five-match Test series between India and England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-not-impressed-with-wv-ramans-sacking-reports-386563" hreflang="en">Cricket- BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly not impressed with WV Raman's sacking: Reports</a>

According to a report in The Times of India, the BCCI has held talks with the ECB to tweak the five-Test series and carve out a window for IPL 2021, which had to be postponed indefinitely after 29 matches as multiple COVID-19 cases emerged within the players and staff in the bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

“BCCI and the ECB are in discussions to tweak the five-Test series. Details of those discussions aren’t public yet. But in whichever manner the ECB agrees to tweak the Test series, they will want the IPL in England because the counties can earn from it. There’ll be a good chance of a quid pro quo,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

“Only if costs are escalating to a point where it starts affecting stakeholders, the BCCI will consider the UAE as the second option for the IPL. On that front, we aren’t even discounting the idea of hosting the IPL in Sri Lanka,” the sources added.

However, a spokesman for the English cricket board told TOI that they did not receive any such requests.&nbsp;

"We talk to the BCCI on a regular basis about a wide range of issues especially as we address the challenges of Covid-19, but have had no official request to change dates and are continuing to plan for the five Test series as is scheduled."

The five-match Test series will commence on August 4 and the venues will be Nottingham, Lord's, Leeds, Oval and Old Trafford. The series will take place after World Test Championship Finals between India and New Zealand that will be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has clarified that there have been no requests from the Indian cricket board (BCCI) to tweak the schedule of the upcoming five-match Test series between India and England.

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has clarified that there have been no requests from the Indian cricket board (BCCI) to tweak the schedule of the upcoming five-match Test series between India and England. ALSO READ: Cricket- BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly not impressed with WV Raman's sacking: Reports According to a report in The Times of India, the BCCI has held talks with the ECB to tweak the five-Test series and carve out a window for IPL 2021, which had to be postponed indefinitely after 29 matches as multiple COVID-19 cases emerged within the players and staff in the bio-secure bubble. “BCCI and the ECB are in discussions to tweak the five-Test series. Details of those discussions aren’t public yet. But in whichever manner the ECB agrees to tweak the Test series, they will want the IPL in England because the counties can earn from it. There’ll be a good chance of a quid pro quo,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India. “Only if costs are escalating to a point where it starts affecting stakeholders, the BCCI will consider the UAE as the second option for the IPL. On that front, we aren’t even discounting the idea of hosting the IPL in Sri Lanka,” the sources added. However, a spokesman for the English cricket board told TOI that they did not receive any such requests. "We talk to the BCCI on a regular basis about a wide range of issues especially as we address the challenges of Covid-19, but have had no official request to change dates and are continuing to plan for the five Test series as is scheduled." The five-match Test series will commence on August 4 and the venues will be Nottingham, Lord's, Leeds, Oval and Old Trafford. The series will take place after World Test Championship Finals between India and New Zealand that will be played at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

Cricket: 'Have had no official request from BCCI to change dates', clarifies ECB

The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for the long tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will not only play the ICC World Test Championship final but also a five-match Test series against England. However, the BCCI is in talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a bid to tweak the much-awaited Test series and find a window for the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. <o:p></o:p>

IPL 2021 had to be postponed indefinitely after 29 matches as multiple COVID-19 cases emerged within the players and staff in the bio-secure bubble. With a packed international cricket calendar, the BCCI is still seeking a window for the remainder of IPL 2021. <o:p></o:p>

According to a report in The Times of India, the BCCI has held talks with the ECB to tweak the five-Test series and carve out a window for IPL 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-rahul-dravid-to-coach-indian-mens-team-on-sri-lanka-tour-386192" hreflang="en">Cricket: Rahul Dravid to coach Indian men's team on Sri Lanka tour</a><o:p></o:p>

“BCCI and the ECB are in discussions to tweak the five-Test series. Details of those discussions aren’t public yet. But in whichever manner the ECB agrees to tweak the Test series, they will want the IPL in England because the counties can earn from it. There’ll be a good chance of a quid pro quo,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India.<o:p></o:p>

“Only if costs are escalating to a point where it starts affecting stakeholders, the BCCI will consider the UAE as the second option for the IPL. On that front, we aren’t even discounting the idea of hosting the IPL in Sri Lanka,” the sources added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-womens-team-to-play-first-ever-pink-ball-test-in-australia-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-386187" hreflang="en">Indian women's team to play first-ever pink ball Test in Australia: BCCI secretary Jay Shah</a><o:p></o:p>

The five-Test series between India and England is slated to start on August 4 in Nottingham with the final match to be held in Manchester from September 10. With the T20 World Cup starting in mid-October, the BCCI is looking for a window before the showpiece tournament with as many as 31 matches still remaining to be played in the postponed IPL 2021. <o:p></o:p>

With County clubs ready to host IPL 2021 matches, BCCI is looking at England as a possible venue for the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for the long tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will not only play the ICC World Test Championship final but also a five-match Test series against England.

The Indian men’s cricket team is gearing up for the long tour of the UK, where the Virat Kohli-led side will not only play the ICC World Test Championship final but also a five-match Test series against England. However, the BCCI is in talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in a bid to tweak the much-awaited Test series and find a window for the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. IPL 2021 had to be postponed indefinitely after 29 matches as multiple COVID-19 cases emerged within the players and staff in the bio-secure bubble. With a packed international cricket calendar, the BCCI is still seeking a window for the remainder of IPL 2021. According to a report in The Times of India, the BCCI has held talks with the ECB to tweak the five-Test series and carve out a window for IPL 2021. ALSO READ: Cricket: Rahul Dravid to coach Indian men's team on Sri Lanka tour “BCCI and the ECB are in discussions to tweak the five-Test series. Details of those discussions aren’t public yet. But in whichever manner the ECB agrees to tweak the Test series, they will want the IPL in England because the counties can earn from it. There’ll be a good chance of a quid pro quo,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India. “Only if costs are escalating to a point where it starts affecting stakeholders, the BCCI will consider the UAE as the second option for the IPL. On that front, we aren’t even discounting the idea of hosting the IPL in Sri Lanka,” the sources added. ALSO READ: Indian women's team to play first-ever pink ball Test in Australia: BCCI secretary Jay Shah The five-Test series between India and England is slated to start on August 4 in Nottingham with the final match to be held in Manchester from September 10. With the T20 World Cup starting in mid-October, the BCCI is looking for a window before the showpiece tournament with as many as 31 matches still remaining to be played in the postponed IPL 2021. With County clubs ready to host IPL 2021 matches, BCCI is looking at England as a possible venue for the T20 tournament.

BCCI in talks with ECB to tweak India-England Tests, find window for IPL 2021: Report

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has predicted the score-line of the upcoming Test series between England and India. Team India will play five-match Test series against England in August-September after the conclusion of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton, against England in June.<o:p></o:p>

Dravid predicted that the series will be “tough” but said that he believes that India have a very good chance to defeat the Joe Root-led side. Notably, Dravid was the last Indian captain to win a Test series on England soil in the year 2007.<o:p></o:p>

However, Dravid questioned England’s batting line-up and said they have only two word-class batsmen in Joe Root and Ben Stokes. The living legend further added that no team has had better preparation heading into England series as the Virat Kohli and Co. would be spending almost a month in preparation following the conclusion of the World Test Championship final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-ipl-2021-be-played-in-between-wtc-final-and-england-series-sourav-ganguly-responds-383923" hreflang="en">Can IPL 2021 be played in between WTC final and England series? Sourav Ganguly responds</a> 
<o:p></o:p>

"I really do think India have a very good chance this time," Dravid said in a webinar organised by Live Aid India, a trust to help those affected by Covid-19. "There's no question about their [England's] bowling. Whatever bowling attack England put on the park, especially their seam-bowling attack, is going to be fantastic. They have a lot of players to pick and choose from and that's going to be terrific.<o:p></o:p>

"But if you look at their top six or top seven, you really think of one great batsman, a world-class batsman who is Joe Root. Obviously, Ben Stokes is another one, who is a good all-rounder, but for some reason [R] Ashwin seems to do well against him. And that should be an interesting contest. I know he's done well against him [Stokes] in India, but it'll still be an interesting subplot to the series.<o:p></o:p>

"But I just think India will be well-prepared, have the confidence from Australia, there's lot of belief in the squad. A couple of players have been to England a few times, there's a lot of experience in the batting order this time around, so this is probably our best chance, maybe say 3-2 to India."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-expresses-his-gratitude-towards-frontline-workers-amidst-covid-19-crisis-383915" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli expresses his 'gratitude' towards frontline workers amidst COVID-19 crisis</a>

"After the WTC final, they're going to be in England for a whole month before the Test series starts. I don't think any team has had that kind of time to prepare for a Test series."<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, the BCCI has announced the India squad for the WTC final and five-Test series versus England.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>India's squad: Virat Kohli (C), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Rohit Sharma, Gill, Mayank, Cheteshwar Pujara, H. Vihari, Rishabh (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Bumrah, Ishant, Shami, Siraj, Shardul, Umesh. KL Rahul &amp; Saha (WK) subject to fitness clearance.</o:p>

Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has predicted the score-line of the upcoming Test series between England and India. Team India will play five-match Test series against England in August-September after the conclusion of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton, against England in June.

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has predicted the score-line of the upcoming Test series between England and India. Team India will play five-match Test series against England in August-September after the conclusion of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final, scheduled to be played in Southampton, against England in June. Dravid predicted that the series will be “tough” but said that he believes that India have a very good chance to defeat the Joe Root-led side. Notably, Dravid was the last Indian captain to win a Test series on England soil in the year 2007. However, Dravid questioned England’s batting line-up and said they have only two word-class batsmen in Joe Root and Ben Stokes. The living legend further added that no team has had better preparation heading into England series as the Virat Kohli and Co. would be spending almost a month in preparation following the conclusion of the World Test Championship final. ALSO READ: Can IPL 2021 be played in between WTC final and England series? Sourav Ganguly responds "I really do think India have a very good chance this time," Dravid said in a webinar organised by Live Aid India, a trust to help those affected by Covid-19. "There's no question about their [England's] bowling. Whatever bowling attack England put on the park, especially their seam-bowling attack, is going to be fantastic. They have a lot of players to pick and choose from and that's going to be terrific. "But if you look at their top six or top seven, you really think of one great batsman, a world-class batsman who is Joe Root. Obviously, Ben Stokes is another one, who is a good all-rounder, but for some reason [R] Ashwin seems to do well against him. And that should be an interesting contest. I know he's done well against him [Stokes] in India, but it'll still be an interesting subplot to the series. "But I just think India will be well-prepared, have the confidence from Australia, there's lot of belief in the squad. A couple of players have been to England a few times, there's a lot of experience in the batting order this time around, so this is probably our best chance, maybe say 3-2 to India." ALSO READ: Virat Kohli expresses his 'gratitude' towards frontline workers amidst COVID-19 crisis "After the WTC final, they're going to be in England for a whole month before the Test series starts. I don't think any team has had that kind of time to prepare for a Test series." Meanwhile, the BCCI has announced the India squad for the WTC final and five-Test series versus England. India's squad: Virat Kohli (C), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Rohit Sharma, Gill, Mayank, Cheteshwar Pujara, H. Vihari, Rishabh (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Bumrah, Ishant, Shami, Siraj, Shardul, Umesh. KL Rahul & Saha (WK) subject to fitness clearance. Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

'India have very good chance': Rahul Dravid predicts the scoreline of England vs India Test series

England head coach Chris Silverwood&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;apologised&nbsp;for the way Moeen Ali's exit from the ongoing Test series against India was communicated by captain Joe Root but said the team management is "happy to own that decision".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Root, in a post-match press conference, had said that Moeen had "chosen" to leave the India tour after the completion of second Test in Chennai, which was the all-rounder's first appearance in 18 months.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, Moeen had actually taken up a pre-planned period of rest, allocated to all of England's multi-format players.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“First of&nbsp;all&nbsp;we’re sorry if the impression we gave yesterday was that Moeen’s being treated different to other people,”&nbsp;Silverwood&nbsp;said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“He isn’t, I can guarantee you of that; the decision was ours, as it was with Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood. We’re happy to own that decision.”&nbsp;

The England head coach further admitted that staying out for the remainder of the Test series against India was discussed with the all-rounder but accepted that Moeen's personal circumstances made it tough.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-squad-for-last-2-tests-vs-england-as-shami-jadeja-miss-out-364265" hreflang="en">India announce squad for last 2 Tests vs England as Shami, Jadeja miss out</a>

Notably, Moeen had spent 20 days inside a room for quarantine since the start of the Sri Lanka tour, having tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Sri Lanka in the month of January.&nbsp;

“The question was posed to him. He was asked, but ultimately we felt it was the right decision for him to go home,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It was a unique situation with&nbsp;Mooen, he’d spent so long in isolation, getting Covid out in Sri Lanka, and with how he just broke back into the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We touched base with Mo last night, as did Joe. He’s fine, he understands that we’ve got his best interests at heart and we’re trying to look after him, the same as the other players. These are strange times we’re in and we have to look after our players.”&nbsp;

Former England cricketers like Sir Ian Botham, Kevin Pietersen, and Michael Vaughan have criticised the&nbsp;rotation policy employed by the Three Lions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-and-rohit-sharma-jump-in-icc-test-player-rankings-after-england-win-364249" hreflang="en">Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma jump in ICC Test Player Rankings after England win</a>

"I think the rotation policy is something we need to get on with and make it work as best as we can. People do need to see their families, we are trying to make life for our players as comfortable as possible. We just need to make it work, people need to spend some time with their families. We prioritise Tests and T20s equally, T20 World Cup is here in India, but we need to make sure that everyone stays in top form, and in order to do that, we need to rotate players and look after them. I can guarantee you we are not prioritising anything above Test cricket," said Silverwood.&nbsp;

"We have to rotate people, that's why we are working so hard in order to have a big group of players we can work with. We have seen some players who we might have not seen normally. We understand that we need to do it. We also need to make sure that when we arrive at the Ashes, we have a healthy group of players that are all capable of performing. This all started for me one year ago, we have some great Test cricket between now and then, and we want to win everything," he added.

Meanwhile, England have announced the squad for the third Test against India, scheduled to be played from February 24.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood have been included in the squad, Moeen will head back home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{eb18ab91-3fd9-45ef-b0cc-d0235be50b9b}{69}" paraid="945405439" role="heading" >England squad for third Test:&nbsp;</h2>

Joe Root (c), James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Dominic Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Dom Sibley, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris&nbsp;Woakes, Mark Wood.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

England head coach Chris Silverwood on Wednesday apologised for the way Moeen Ali's exit from the ongoing Test series against India was communicated by captain Joe Root but said the team management is "happy to own that decision".

England head coach Chris Silverwood on Wednesday apologised for the way Moeen Ali's exit from the ongoing Test series against India was communicated by captain Joe Root but said the team management is "happy to own that decision". Root, in a post-match press conference, had said that Moeen had "chosen" to leave the India tour after the completion of second Test in Chennai, which was the all-rounder's first appearance in 18 months. However, Moeen had actually taken up a pre-planned period of rest, allocated to all of England's multi-format players. “First of all we’re sorry if the impression we gave yesterday was that Moeen’s being treated different to other people,” Silverwood said. “He isn’t, I can guarantee you of that; the decision was ours, as it was with Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood. We’re happy to own that decision.” The England head coach further admitted that staying out for the remainder of the Test series against India was discussed with the all-rounder but accepted that Moeen's personal circumstances made it tough. ALSO READ: India announce squad for last 2 Tests vs England as Shami, Jadeja miss out Notably, Moeen had spent 20 days inside a room for quarantine since the start of the Sri Lanka tour, having tested positive for COVID-19 on arrival in Sri Lanka in the month of January. “The question was posed to him. He was asked, but ultimately we felt it was the right decision for him to go home,” he said. “It was a unique situation with Mooen, he’d spent so long in isolation, getting Covid out in Sri Lanka, and with how he just broke back into the team. “We touched base with Mo last night, as did Joe. He’s fine, he understands that we’ve got his best interests at heart and we’re trying to look after him, the same as the other players. These are strange times we’re in and we have to look after our players.” Former England cricketers like Sir Ian Botham, Kevin Pietersen, and Michael Vaughan have criticised the rotation policy employed by the Three Lions. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma jump in ICC Test Player Rankings after England win "I think the rotation policy is something we need to get on with and make it work as best as we can. People do need to see their families, we are trying to make life for our players as comfortable as possible. We just need to make it work, people need to spend some time with their families. We prioritise Tests and T20s equally, T20 World Cup is here in India, but we need to make sure that everyone stays in top form, and in order to do that, we need to rotate players and look after them. I can guarantee you we are not prioritising anything above Test cricket," said Silverwood. "We have to rotate people, that's why we are working so hard in order to have a big group of players we can work with. We have seen some players who we might have not seen normally. We understand that we need to do it. We also need to make sure that when we arrive at the Ashes, we have a healthy group of players that are all capable of performing. This all started for me one year ago, we have some great Test cricket between now and then, and we want to win everything," he added. Meanwhile, England have announced the squad for the third Test against India, scheduled to be played from February 24. While the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood have been included in the squad, Moeen will head back home. England squad for third Test: Joe Root (c), James Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Dominic Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Dom Sibley, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.

'We’re sorry': England apologise to Moeen Ali after India Test series exit

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5.&nbsp;Root was in splendid form during England's recent 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka where the English skipper amassed 426 runs in 2 Tests.&nbsp;

Root is all set to play his 100th&nbsp;Test match, which will put him in an elite list of England cricketers with over 100 Test appearances.&nbsp;And Root's 100th&nbsp;Test will also provide an opportunity for him to surpass his former captain Alastair Cook for a unique batting record against India.&nbsp;

Root, thus far, has 49 Test half-centuries under his belt, putting him second on the list of most half-centuries scored by an English batsman in the longest format of the game. Cook leads the chart with as many as 57 Test fifties.&nbsp;Hence, a single fifty by Root in the Chennai Test against India will&nbsp;make him only the second English batsman to post 50 half-centuries in Test cricket.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-worry-for-the-game-michael-vaughan-expresses-concerns-over-sa-vs-aus-series-postponement-361056" hreflang="en">'Huge worry for the game': Michael Vaughan expresses concerns over SA vs AUS series postponement</a>

The 30-year-old is eyeing another landmark in Test cricket as the England captain is just one fifty away from scoring most half-centuries against India in the impending series. If Root scores a half-century in the Chennai Test, he will overtake Cook's record of scoring most half-centuries by an English batsman against India. Both Root and Cook are tied at nine half-centuries against India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;batsman Ollie Pope has been added to the England Test squad for the tour of India.&nbsp;Pope has fully recovered from a left shoulder injury sustained in August 2020 against Pakistan. The England medical team are satisfied that he is available for selection.&nbsp;The 23-year-old has&nbsp;practised&nbsp;with the full squad over the past two days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5.

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5. Root was in splendid form during England's recent 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka where the English skipper amassed 426 runs in 2 Tests. Root is all set to play his 100th Test match, which will put him in an elite list of England cricketers with over 100 Test appearances. And Root's 100th Test will also provide an opportunity for him to surpass his former captain Alastair Cook for a unique batting record against India. Root, thus far, has 49 Test half-centuries under his belt, putting him second on the list of most half-centuries scored by an English batsman in the longest format of the game. Cook leads the chart with as many as 57 Test fifties. Hence, a single fifty by Root in the Chennai Test against India will make him only the second English batsman to post 50 half-centuries in Test cricket. ALSO READ: 'Huge worry for the game': Michael Vaughan expresses concerns over SA vs AUS series postponement The 30-year-old is eyeing another landmark in Test cricket as the England captain is just one fifty away from scoring most half-centuries against India in the impending series. If Root scores a half-century in the Chennai Test, he will overtake Cook's record of scoring most half-centuries by an English batsman against India. Both Root and Cook are tied at nine half-centuries against India. ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior Meanwhile, batsman Ollie Pope has been added to the England Test squad for the tour of India. Pope has fully recovered from a left shoulder injury sustained in August 2020 against Pakistan. The England medical team are satisfied that he is available for selection. The 23-year-old has practised with the full squad over the past two days.

Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad. While India haven't lost a Test series since 2012, England remain the last team to defeat&nbsp;India at home in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

However, ahead of the much-awaited four-Test series between India and England, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has said that he doesn't see the Joe Root-led side winning any of the Test matches in the impending series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gambhir while giving a slight advantage to England for the pink-ball Test said England don't have quality spinners who can&nbsp;utilise&nbsp;the Indian conditions to perfection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-team-to-start-full-group-training-from-tuesday-as-all-covid-19-tests-return-negative-360640" hreflang="en">England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative</a>

“It has to be 3-0 India or probably 3-1. I’m only going to give a Pink Ball Test match, probably 50-50 to England just from the conditions point of view. I don’t see England winning any of the Test matches with the kind of spin attack they’ve got,” Gambhir&nbsp;said on Star Sports show Game Plan.&nbsp;

England head into the four-Test series versus India on the back of&nbsp;2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka. Gambhir has said facing the likes of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;or Ravichandran Ashwin would be a different game altogether for the visitors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-on-verge-of-shattering-twin-records-against-england-360627" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England</a>

“This is going to be a completely different challenge for someone like Joe Root. Yes, he has played really well in Sri Lanka, but when you have to face people like Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;on any wicket, or for that matter, Ravichandran Ashwin, when his confidence is sky-high after what he has done in Australia, I am sure it is going to be a completely different beast and a completely different ball game,” he added.&nbsp;

India will also welcome their skipper Virat Kohli back in the squad. Kohli had left Australia after the Adelaide Test to attend the birth of his first child.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad.

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad. While India haven't lost a Test series since 2012, England remain the last team to defeat India at home in the longest format of the game. However, ahead of the much-awaited four-Test series between India and England, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has said that he doesn't see the Joe Root-led side winning any of the Test matches in the impending series. Gambhir while giving a slight advantage to England for the pink-ball Test said England don't have quality spinners who can utilise the Indian conditions to perfection. ALSO READ: England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative “It has to be 3-0 India or probably 3-1. I’m only going to give a Pink Ball Test match, probably 50-50 to England just from the conditions point of view. I don’t see England winning any of the Test matches with the kind of spin attack they’ve got,” Gambhir said on Star Sports show Game Plan. England head into the four-Test series versus India on the back of 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka. Gambhir has said facing the likes of Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin would be a different game altogether for the visitors. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England “This is going to be a completely different challenge for someone like Joe Root. Yes, he has played really well in Sri Lanka, but when you have to face people like Jasprit Bumrah on any wicket, or for that matter, Ravichandran Ashwin, when his confidence is sky-high after what he has done in Australia, I am sure it is going to be a completely different beast and a completely different ball game,” he added. India will also welcome their skipper Virat Kohli back in the squad. Kohli had left Australia after the Adelaide Test to attend the birth of his first child. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

India vs England: Gautam Gambhir predicts scoreline of Test series

Alastair Cook has indicated the upcoming Test series against India could be his last as England captain.

But the 31-year-old Essex left-hander said that whatever his future as skipper, he would like to continue his Test career purely as an opening batsman.

Cook is set to break Michael Atherton`s record of 54 Tests as England captain when he leads the tourists in the first of five-match series against India in Rajkot on Wednesday.

&quot;Deep down I don`t know how much longer I am going to carry on,&quot; he said in an interview with this month`s Cricketer magazine quoted by The Times newspaper.

&quot;It could be two months, it could be a year.&quot;

Cook became England captain in 2012 and promptly led his side to a 2-1 series win in India that year.

In total, Cook has won 24 of his Tests as captain, a tally that includes two home Ashes series triumphs.&nbsp;

His tally of 10,688 runs in 135 Tests is the highest by any England batsman and includes a century on debut, against India in Nagpur in 2006.

That was the first of 29 Test hundreds, another England record, and Cook would like to return to the ranks before he retires from international cricket.

&quot;I do look forward to the day when hopefully I can play a Test match as just a batter, there`s no doubt about that,&quot; said Cook.

&quot;If that happens I am going to really enjoy standing at first slip and being the bloke who makes suggestions to whoever`s in charge and not being the bloke who has to make the final decision.

&quot;There have been some tough moments and amazing moments and you can enjoy that success that little bit more because of what you go through as England captain.&quot;

Former England captain Michael Vaughan told BBC radio on Monday that Cook could relinquish the leadership of the team either following the India series of after the 2017/18 Ashes tour of Australia.

&quot;These next six or seven weeks are not crucial for Cook, he is breaking records and he has four or five years left as a batsman, if his mind wants to play that long,&quot; said Vaughan.

&quot;He`d be a real good sounding board and be able to see when the new captain is under stress. He would be the perfect foil.&quot;

&nbsp;

(AFP)

&nbsp;

England's captain said it his future as skipper was uncertain but he would definitely continue his Test career as an opening batsman

Alastair Cook has indicated the upcoming Test series against India could be his last as England captain. But the 31-year-old Essex left-hander said that whatever his future as skipper, he would like to continue his Test career purely as an opening batsman. Cook is set to break Michael Atherton`s record of 54 Tests as England captain when he leads the tourists in the first of five-match series against India in Rajkot on Wednesday. "Deep down I don`t know how much longer I am going to carry on," he said in an interview with this month`s Cricketer magazine quoted by The Times newspaper. "It could be two months, it could be a year." Cook became England captain in 2012 and promptly led his side to a 2-1 series win in India that year. In total, Cook has won 24 of his Tests as captain, a tally that includes two home Ashes series triumphs. His tally of 10,688 runs in 135 Tests is the highest by any England batsman and includes a century on debut, against India in Nagpur in 2006. That was the first of 29 Test hundreds, another England record, and Cook would like to return to the ranks before he retires from international cricket. "I do look forward to the day when hopefully I can play a Test match as just a batter, there`s no doubt about that," said Cook. "If that happens I am going to really enjoy standing at first slip and being the bloke who makes suggestions to whoever`s in charge and not being the bloke who has to make the final decision. "There have been some tough moments and amazing moments and you can enjoy that success that little bit more because of what you go through as England captain." Former England captain Michael Vaughan told BBC radio on Monday that Cook could relinquish the leadership of the team either following the India series of after the 2017/18 Ashes tour of Australia. "These next six or seven weeks are not crucial for Cook, he is breaking records and he has four or five years left as a batsman, if his mind wants to play that long," said Vaughan. "He`d be a real good sounding board and be able to see when the new captain is under stress. He would be the perfect foil." (AFP)

Cricket: Cook hints at nearing end as England's captain